Greater New Orleans

Dave Fest at Ruby's Roadhouse on June 5 to benefit Mandeville man with cancer

“Dave Fest,” a benefit barbecue and music presentation for Mandeville native David Finn, will be held June 5 from 1-8 p.m. at Ruby’s Roadhouse, 840 Lamarque St. in old Mandeville.

The story of Finn, who currently is battling Stage IV esophageal cancer, inspired Ruby’s Roadhouse owners Dianne and Fred Holland to host the event. They are being assisted by friends, family, colleagues, and generous donors from across Mandeville.

“Dave Fest is to help with ongoing medical expenses and loss of work, and, just as important, the benefit is a showing of love for our friend, a fine, decent young man,” Dianne Holland said. “We have known David for 20 years, starting as a marketing rep ... and over the years, he has become a very good friend to us and many other people.”

Finn, a graduate of Mandeville High School and Clemson University, grew up in the area and, until his recent illness, worked for the Jim Carey Distributing Co. in Covington. He earned a large group of close colleagues, associates and friends throughout St. Tammany Parish.

Dave Fest will celebrate with plenty of food, music and a live auction. Cost is $20 at the door.

“We will feature three bands, who are donating their time — Supercharger, the Jay B. Elston Band, and the Ozzy Cash Band,” Holland said. “Besides music, we will have barbecue chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, sides and desserts.”

Drinks will be available at a cash bar.

A live auction will have something for everyone, including sporting goods, artwork, arts and crafts items, a target pistol, stained-glass art classes, restaurant gift certificates, custom-framed autographed pictures of The Radiators and more.

In addition to the benefit, Finn’s family has set up a fund at Whitney National Bank. To donate, visit any branch and ask for the “To Benefit David Finn” account.

For more information on Dave Fest, visit www.rubysroadhouse.com or call 626.9748.